1
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Lieber CM, Kang HJ, Sobolik EB, Sticher ZM, Ngo VL, Gewirtz AT, Kolykhalov AA, Natchus MG, Greninger AL, Suthar MS, Plemper RK. Efficacy of late-onset antiviral treatment in immunocompromised hosts with persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection. J Virol 2024:e0090524. [PMID: 39207133 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00905-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunocompromised people are at high risk of prolonged severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and progression to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the efficacy of late-onset direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy with therapeutics in clinical use and experimental drugs to mitigate persistent viral replication is unclear. In this study, we employed an immunocompromised mouse model, which supports prolonged replication of SARS-CoV-2 to explore late-onset treatment options. Tandem immuno-depletion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in C57BL/6 mice followed by infection with SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern (VOC) beta B.1.351 resulted in prolonged infection with virus replication for 5 weeks after inoculation. Early-onset treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (paxlovid) or molnupiravir was only moderately efficacious, whereas the experimental therapeutic 4'-fluorouridine (4'-FlU, EIDD-2749) significantly reduced virus load in the upper and lower respiratory compartments 4 days postinfection (dpi). All antivirals significantly lowered virus burden in a 7-day treatment regimen initiated 14 dpi, but paxlovid-treated animals experienced rebound virus replication in the upper respiratory tract 7 days after treatment end. Viral RNA was detectable 28 dpi in paxlovid-treated animals, albeit not in the molnupiravir or 4'-FlU groups, when treatment was initiated 14 dpi and continued for 14 days. Low-level virus replication continued 35 dpi in animals receiving vehicle but had ceased in all treatment groups. These data indicate that late-onset DAA therapy significantly shortens the duration of persistent virus replication in an immunocompromised host, which may have implications for clinical use of antiviral therapeutics to alleviate the risk of progression to severe disease in highly vulnerable patients. IMPORTANCE Four years after the onset of the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the immunocompromised are at greatest risk of developing life-threatening severe disease. However, specific treatment plans for this most vulnerable patient group have not yet been developed. Employing a CD4+ and CD8+ T cell-depleted immunocompromised mouse model of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, we explored therapeutic options of persistent infections with standard-of-care paxlovid, molnupiravir, and the experimental therapeutic 4'-fluorouridine (4'-FlU). Late-onset treatment initiated 14 days after infection was efficacious, but only 4'-FlU was rapidly sterilizing. No treatment-experienced viral variants with reduced susceptibility to the drugs emerged, albeit virus replication rebounded in animals of the paxlovid group after treatment end. This study supports the use of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for late-onset management of persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in immunocompromised hosts. However, treatment courses likely require to be extended for maximal therapeutic benefit, calling for appropriately powered clinical trials to meet the specific needs of this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin M Lieber
- Center for Translational Antiviral Research, Georgia State University Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Hae-Ji Kang
- Center for Translational Antiviral Research, Georgia State University Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth B Sobolik
- Virology Division, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Zachary M Sticher
- Emory Institute for Drug Development, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vu L Ngo
- Center for Translational Antiviral Research, Georgia State University Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Andrew T Gewirtz
- Center for Translational Antiviral Research, Georgia State University Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Michael G Natchus
- Emory Institute for Drug Development, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Alexander L Greninger
- Virology Division, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Mehul S Suthar
- Center for Childhood Infections and Vaccines of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Richard K Plemper
- Center for Translational Antiviral Research, Georgia State University Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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2
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Haoyu W, Meiqin L, Jiaoyang S, Guangliang H, Haofeng L, Pan C, Xiongzhi Q, Kaixin W, Mingli H, Xuejie Y, Lämmermann I, Grillari J, Zhengli S, Jiekai C, Guangming W. Premature aging effects on COVID-19 pathogenesis: new insights from mouse models. Sci Rep 2024; 14:19703. [PMID: 39181932 PMCID: PMC11344828 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-70612-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is identified as a significant risk factor for severe coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), often resulting in profound lung damage and mortality. Yet, the biological relationship between aging, aging-related comorbidities, and COVID-19 remains incompletely understood. This study aimed to elucidate the age-related COVID19 pathogenesis using an Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) mouse model, a premature aging disease model, with humanized ACE2 receptors. Pathological features were compared between young, aged, and HGPS hACE2 mice following SARS-CoV-2 challenge. We demonstrated that young mice display robust interferon response and antiviral activity, whereas this response is attenuated in aged mice. Viral infection in aged mice results in severe respiratory tract hemorrhage, likely contributing a higher mortality rate. In contrast, HGPS hACE2 mice exhibit milder disease manifestations characterized by minor immune cell infiltration and dysregulation of multiple metabolic processes. Comprehensive transcriptome analysis revealed both shared and unique gene expression dynamics among different mouse groups. Collectively, our studies evaluated the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on progeroid syndromes using a HGPS hACE2 mouse model, which holds promise as a useful tool for investigating COVID-19 pathogenesis in individuals with premature aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wu Haoyu
- Center for Cell Lineage Atlas, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
| | - Liu Meiqin
- Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Laboratory Clinical Base, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sun Jiaoyang
- Division of Basic Research, Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou, 510005, China
| | - Hong Guangliang
- Division of Basic Research, Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou, 510005, China
| | - Lin Haofeng
- Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chen Pan
- Center for Cell Lineage Atlas, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Quan Xiongzhi
- Center for Cell Lineage Atlas, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Wu Kaixin
- Center for Cell Lineage and Atlas (CCLA), Bioland Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hu Mingli
- Center for Cell Lineage Atlas, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Yang Xuejie
- Center for Cell Lineage Atlas, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | | | - Johannes Grillari
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, BOKU University, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, 1200, Vienna, Austria
| | - Shi Zhengli
- Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chen Jiekai
- Center for Cell Lineage Atlas, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science and Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Wu Guangming
- Division of Basic Research, Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou, 510005, China.
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
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3
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Ramírez MA, Loaiza RA, Martínez-Balboa Y, Bruneau N, Ramírez E, González PA, Bueno SM, Kalergis AM. Co-administration of recombinant BCG and SARS-CoV-2 proteins leads to robust antiviral immunity. Vaccine 2024; 42:126203. [PMID: 39178767 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.126203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the causative virus of COVID-19, which has been responsible for millions of deaths worldwide since its discovery. After its emergence, several variants have been identified that challenge the efficacy of the available vaccines. Previously, we generated and evaluated a vaccine based on a recombinant Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (rBCG) expressing the nucleoprotein (N) of SARS-CoV-2 (rBCG-N-SARS-CoV-2). This protein is a highly immunogenic antigen and well conserved among variants. Here, we tested the administration of this vaccine with recombinant N and viral Spike proteins (S), or Receptor Binding Domain (RBD-Omicron variant), plus a booster with the recombinant proteins only, as a novel and effective strategy to protect against SARS-CoV-2 variants. METHODS BALB/c mice were immunized with rBCG-N-SARS-CoV-2 and recombinant SARS-CoV-2 proteins in Alum adjuvant, followed by a booster with recombinant proteins to assess the safety and virus-specific cellular and humoral immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 antigens. RESULTS Immunization with rBCG-N-SARS-CoV-2 + recombinant proteins as a vaccine was safe and promoted the activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells that recognize SARS-CoV-2 N, S, and RBD antigens. These cells were able to secrete cytokines with an antiviral profile. This immunization strategy also induced robust titers of specific antibodies against N, S, and RBD and neutralizing antibodies of SARS-CoV-2. CONCLUSIONS Co-administration of the rBCG-N-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine with recombinant SARS-CoV-2 proteins could be an effective alternative to control particular SARS-CoV-2 variants. Due to its safety and capacity to induce virus-specific immune responses, we believe the rBCG-N-SARS-CoV-2 + Proteins vaccine could be an attractive candidate to protect against this virus, especially in newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario A Ramírez
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile
| | - Ricardo A Loaiza
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile
| | - Yohana Martínez-Balboa
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile
| | - Nicole Bruneau
- Sección Virus Oncogénicos y Sub-Departamento Enfermedades Virales, Instituto de Salud Pública de Chile, Ñuñoa, Chile
| | - Eugenio Ramírez
- Sección Virus Oncogénicos y Sub-Departamento Enfermedades Virales, Instituto de Salud Pública de Chile, Ñuñoa, Chile
| | - Pablo A González
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile
| | - Susan M Bueno
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile
| | - Alexis M Kalergis
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile; Departamento de Endocrinología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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4
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Barroso-Arévalo S, Sánchez-Morales L, Porras N, Díaz-Frutos M, Barasona JA, Isla J, López D, Gortázar C, Domínguez L, Sánchez-Vizcaíno JM. Comparative SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.5 variant and D614G-Wuhan strain infections in ferrets: insights into attenuation and disease progression during subclinical to mild COVID-19. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1435464. [PMID: 39211479 PMCID: PMC11358085 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1435464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction As the SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to evolve and new variants emerge, it becomes crucial to understand the comparative pathological and immunological responses elicited by different strains. This study focuses on the original Wuhan strain and the Omicron variant, which have demonstrated significant differences in clinical outcomes and immune responses. Methods We employed ferrets as an experimental model to assess the D614G variant (a derivative of the Wuhan strain) and the Omicron BA.5 variant. Each variant was inoculated into separate groups of ferrets to compare disease severity, viral dissemination, and immune responses. Results The D614G variant induced more severe disease and greater viral spread than the Omicron variant. Notably, ferrets infected with the D614G variant exhibited a robust neutralizing antibody response, whereas those infected with the Omicron variant failed to produce a detectable neutralizing antibody response. Despite the clearance of the virus from nearly all tissues by 7 days post-infection, an increase in pathological lesions was observed from 14 to 21 days, particularly in those infected with the D614G variant, suggesting a sustained immune response even after viral clearance. Discussion These findings underscore the adaptability of SARS-CoV-2 and illuminate how susceptibility and clinical manifestations vary across different strains and species. The results emphasize the necessity of considering both the direct effects of viral infection and the indirect, often prolonged, impacts of the immune response in evaluating the outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Barroso-Arévalo
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lidia Sánchez-Morales
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Néstor Porras
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Díaz-Frutos
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose A. Barasona
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Débora López
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Christian Gortázar
- SaBio, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Lucas Domínguez
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose M. Sánchez-Vizcaíno
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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5
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Lai HY, Fan KC, Lee YH, Lew WZ, Lai WY, Lee SY, Chang WJ, Huang HM. Using a static magnetic field to attenuate the severity in COVID-19-invaded lungs. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16830. [PMID: 39039227 PMCID: PMC11263632 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67806-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Two important factors affecting the progress of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are the S-protein binding function of ACE2 receptors and the membrane fluidity of host cells. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of static magnetic field (SMF) on S-protein/ACE2 binding and cellular membrane fluidity of lung cells, and was performed in vitro using a Calu-3 cell model and in vivo using an animal model. The ability of ACE2 receptors to bind to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein on host cell surfaces under SMF stimulation was evaluated using fluorescence images. Host lung cell membrane fluidity was tested using fluorescence polarization to determine the effects of SMF. Our results indicate that 0.4 T SMF can affect binding between S-protein and ACE2 receptors and increase Calu-3 cell membrane fluidity, and that SMF exposure attenuates LPS-induced alveolar wall thickening in mice. These results may be of value for developing future non-contact, non-invasive, and low side-effect treatments to reduce disease severity in COVID-19-invaded lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsuan-Yu Lai
- School of Dentistry, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Cheng Fan
- Department of Dentistry, Taipei Medical University Wan Fang Hospital, 11696, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hua Lee
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, 912301, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Zhen Lew
- School of Dentistry, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Yi Lai
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 112062, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Yang Lee
- School of Dentistry, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, Taipei Medical University Wan Fang Hospital, 11696, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Jen Chang
- School of Dentistry, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Haw-Ming Huang
- School of Dentistry, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
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6
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Zheng HY, Song TZ, Zheng YT. Immunobiology of COVID-19: Mechanistic and therapeutic insights from animal models. Zool Res 2024; 45:747-766. [PMID: 38894519 PMCID: PMC11298684 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2024.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The distribution of the immune system throughout the body complicates in vitro assessments of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) immunobiology, often resulting in a lack of reproducibility when extrapolated to the whole organism. Consequently, developing animal models is imperative for a comprehensive understanding of the pathology and immunology of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. This review summarizes current progress related to COVID-19 animal models, including non-human primates (NHPs), mice, and hamsters, with a focus on their roles in exploring the mechanisms of immunopathology, immune protection, and long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection, as well as their application in immunoprevention and immunotherapy of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Differences among these animal models and their specific applications are also highlighted, as no single model can fully encapsulate all aspects of COVID-19. To effectively address the challenges posed by COVID-19, it is essential to select appropriate animal models that can accurately replicate both fatal and non-fatal infections with varying courses and severities. Optimizing animal model libraries and associated research tools is key to resolving the global COVID-19 pandemic, serving as a robust resource for future emerging infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Yi Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Tian-Zhang Song
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Yong-Tang Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
- National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650107, China. E-mail:
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7
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Jiménez de Oya N, Calvo-Pinilla E, Mingo-Casas P, Escribano-Romero E, Blázquez AB, Esteban A, Fernández-González R, Pericuesta E, Sánchez-Cordón PJ, Martín-Acebes MA, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Saiz JC. Susceptibility and transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 variants in transgenic mice expressing the cat angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptor. One Health 2024; 18:100744. [PMID: 38725960 PMCID: PMC11079394 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 and its rapid spread throughout the world has caused the largest pandemic of our modern era. The zoonotic origin of this pathogen highlights the importance of the One Health concept and the need for a coordinated response to this kind of threats. Since its emergence, the virus has caused >7 million deaths worldwide. However, the animal source for human outbreaks remains unknown. The ability of the virus to jump between hosts is facilitated by the presence of the virus receptor, the highly conserved angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), found in various mammals. Positivity for SARS-CoV-2 has been reported in various species, including domestic animals and livestock, but their potential role in bridging viral transmission to humans is still unknown. Additionally, the virus has evolved over the pandemic, resulting in variants with different impacts on human health. Therefore, suitable animal models are crucial to evaluate the susceptibility of different mammalian species to this pathogen and the adaptability of different variants. In this work, we established a transgenic mouse model that expresses the feline ACE2 protein receptor (cACE2) under the human cytokeratin 18 (K18) gene promoter's control, enabling high expression in epithelial cells, which the virus targets. Using this model, we assessed the susceptibility, pathogenicity, and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 variants. Our results show that the sole expression of the cACE2 receptor in these mice makes them susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 variants from the initial pandemic wave but does not enhance susceptibility to omicron variants. Furthermore, we demonstrated efficient contact transmission of SARS-CoV-2 between transgenic mice that express either the feline or the human ACE2 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nereida Jiménez de Oya
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC). Ctra. de La Coruña, km 7, 5, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Eva Calvo-Pinilla
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal, INIA-CSIC. Carretera Algete-El Casar de Talamanca, Km. 8,1, 28130 Valdeolmos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Mingo-Casas
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC). Ctra. de La Coruña, km 7, 5, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Estela Escribano-Romero
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC). Ctra. de La Coruña, km 7, 5, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Ana-Belén Blázquez
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC). Ctra. de La Coruña, km 7, 5, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Ana Esteban
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC). Ctra. de La Coruña, km 7, 5, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Raúl Fernández-González
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA-CSIC. Av. Puerta de Hierro, 18, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Eva Pericuesta
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA-CSIC. Av. Puerta de Hierro, 18, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Pedro J. Sánchez-Cordón
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal, INIA-CSIC. Carretera Algete-El Casar de Talamanca, Km. 8,1, 28130 Valdeolmos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel A. Martín-Acebes
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC). Ctra. de La Coruña, km 7, 5, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutiérrez-Adán
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA-CSIC. Av. Puerta de Hierro, 18, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Juan-Carlos Saiz
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC). Ctra. de La Coruña, km 7, 5, Madrid 28040, Spain
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8
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Figueiredo AFA, Wnuk NT, Brener MRG, Farias TO, Campolina-Silva GH, Andrade ACSP, Queiroz-Junior CM, Menezes GB, Teixeira MM, Costa VV, Costa GMJ. Acute murine-betacoronavirus infection impairs testicular steroidogenesis and the quality of sperm production. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104214. [PMID: 38508038 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Although several testicular alterations promoted by coronavirus infection have been demonstrated, the extent, causes, and players of testicular pathogenesis are not totally understood. The present study aimed to investigate the short-term effects on male fertility of intranasally administered murine hepatitis virus strain 3 (MHV-3), a member of the genus Betacoronavirus, which causes a severe systemic acute infection. This mouse model might be used as a in vivo prototype for investigating the impact of betacoronavirus on the endocrine and exocrine testicular functions with the advantage to be performed in a biosafety level 2 condition. Herein, we performed virological, histopathological, and molecular studies regarding the testicular spermatogenesis and the spermatic quality analyses in an MHV-3-infected C57BL/6 mice. The main outcomes showed that MHV-3 infects mouse testis and induces a testicular inflammatory state, impairing the steroidogenic pathway. The infection led to several alterations in the testicular parenchyma, such as: seminiferous epithelium sloughing, retention of residual bodies, germ cell apoptosis, alterations in intercellular junction proteins, and worse spermatogenic parameters. Moreover, the levels of plasmatic testosterone as well as the quality of sperm production reduced. Therefore, the present data suggest that the viral/inflammatory impairment of the steroidogenic pathway and the consequent imbalance of androgen levels is critical in testicular pathology, disturbing the SC barrier function and the germ cell differentiation. Our study is important for comprehending the effects of beta coronavirus infections on testis function in order to develop treatments that could prevent virus-mediated male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F A Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - N T Wnuk
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M R G Brener
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - T O Farias
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - A C S P Andrade
- CHU from Quebec Research Center, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - C M Queiroz-Junior
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Research Group in Arboviral Diseases, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - G B Menezes
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M M Teixeira
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Immunopharmacology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - V V Costa
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Research Group in Arboviral Diseases, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - G M J Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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9
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Lieber CM, Kang HJ, Sobolik EB, Sticher ZM, Ngo VL, Gewirtz AT, Kolykhalov AA, Natchus MG, Greninger AL, Suthar MS, Plemper RK. Efficacy of late-onset antiviral treatment in immune-compromised hosts with persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.23.595478. [PMID: 38826222 PMCID: PMC11142196 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.23.595478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The immunocompromised are at high risk of prolonged SARS-CoV-2 infection and progression to severe COVID-19. However, efficacy of late-onset direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy with therapeutics in clinical use and experimental drugs to mitigate persistent viral replication is unclear. In this study, we employed an immunocompromised mouse model, which supports prolonged replication of SARS-CoV-2 to explore late-onset treatment options. Tandem immuno-depletion of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells in C57BL/6 mice followed by infection with SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern (VOC) beta B.1.351 resulted in prolonged infection with virus replication for five weeks after inoculation. Early-onset treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (paxlovid) or molnupiravir was only moderately efficacious, whereas the experimental therapeutic 4'-fluorourdine (4'-FlU, EIDD-2749) significantly reduced virus load in upper and lower respiratory compartments four days post infection (dpi). All antivirals significantly lowered virus burden in a 7-day treatment regimen initiated 14 dpi, but paxlovid-treated animals experienced rebound virus replication in the upper respiratory tract seven days after treatment end. Viral RNA was detectable 28 dpi in paxlovid-treated animals, albeit not in the molnupiravir or 4'-FlU groups, when treatment was initiated 14 dpi and continued for 14 days. Low-level virus replication continued 35 dpi in animals receiving vehicle but had ceased in all treatment groups. These data indicate that late-onset DAA therapy significantly shortens the duration of persistent virus replication in an immunocompromised host, which may have implications for clinical use of antiviral therapeutics to alleviate the risk of progression to severe disease in highly vulnerable patients. Importance Four years after the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the immunocompromised are at greatest risk of developing life-threatening severe disease. However, specific treatment plans for this most vulnerable patient group have not yet been developed. Employing a CD4 + and CD8 + T cell-depleted immunocompromised mouse model of SARS-CoV-2 infection, we explored therapeutic options of persistent infections with standard-of-care paxlovid, molnupiravir, and the experimental therapeutic 4'-FlU. Late-onset treatment initiated 14 days after infection was efficacious, but only 4'-FlU was rapidly sterilizing. No treatment-experienced viral variants with reduced susceptibility to the drugs emerged, albeit virus replication rebounded in animals of the paxlovid group after treatment end. This study supports the use of direct-acting antivirals for late-onset management of persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in immunocompromised hosts. However, treatment courses likely require to be extended for maximal therapeutic benefit, calling for appropriately powered clinical trials to meet the specific needs of this patient group.
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10
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Hickey AJ, Maloney SE, Kuehl PJ, Phillips JE, Wolff RK. Practical Considerations in Dose Extrapolation from Animals to Humans. J Aerosol Med Pulm Drug Deliv 2024; 37:77-89. [PMID: 38237032 DOI: 10.1089/jamp.2023.0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Animal studies are an important component of drug product development and the regulatory review process since modern practices have been in place, for almost a century. A variety of experimental systems are available to generate aerosols for delivery to animals in both liquid and solid forms. The extrapolation of deposited dose in the lungs from laboratory animals to humans is challenging because of genetic, anatomical, physiological, pharmacological, and other biological differences between species. Inhaled drug delivery extrapolation requires scrutiny as the aerodynamic behavior, and its role in lung deposition is influenced not only by the properties of the drug aerosol but also by the anatomy and pulmonary function of the species in which it is being evaluated. Sources of variability between species include the formulation, delivery system, and species-specific biological factors. It is important to acknowledge the underlying variables that contribute to estimates of dose scaling between species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Hickey
- Department of Technology Advancement and Commercialization, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sara E Maloney
- Department of Technology Advancement and Commercialization, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Phillip J Kuehl
- Division: Scientific Core Laboratories; Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Jonathan E Phillips
- Amgen, Inc., Inflammation Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, USA
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11
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Liu G, Zhang M, Wu B, Zhang C, Wang Y, Han X, Wang R, Li L, Wei Y, Sun Y, Cao X, Wang Y, Li Y, Li M, Zhao G, Ke Y, Guo Z, Yin Q, Sun Y. A highly susceptible hACE2-transgenic mouse model for SARS-CoV-2 research. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1348405. [PMID: 38389533 PMCID: PMC10883650 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1348405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Several animal models have been used to assist the development of vaccines and therapeutics since the COVID-19 outbreak. Due to the lack of binding affinity of mouse angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) to the S protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), increasing the susceptibility of mice to SARS-CoV-2 infection was considered in several ways. Here, we generated a COVID-19 mouse model expressing human ACE2 (hACE2) under the control of the CAG promoter. Overexpression of hACE2 did not pose a significant effect on weight growth. After SARS-CoV-2 inoculation, mice showed obvious viral replication and production of inflammation within 7 days, with a gradual decrease in body weight until death. Virological testing found that the virus can replicate in the respiratory system, small intestine, and brain. Additionally, this mouse model was applied to compare two antibody drug candidates, the anti-RBD antibody (MW06) and the mouse CD24-conjugated anti-RBD antibody (mCD24-MW06). Differences in antiviral effects between these two antibodies can be demonstrated in this mouse model when a challenge dose that invalidates the anti-RBD antibody treatment was used. This study provided a new mouse model for studying SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and evaluating potential interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Min Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baolei Wu
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Changchun, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Yan Wang
- SPF (Beijing) Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Baoding, China
| | - Xuelian Han
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rongjuan Wang
- Beijing Kohnoor Science & Technology Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Li Li
- SPF (Beijing) Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Baoding, China
| | - Yuwei Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yali Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Public Health School, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Xiangwen Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Public Health School, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yalan Li
- Beijing Kohnoor Science & Technology Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guangyu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Public Health School, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Yuehua Ke
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Zhendong Guo
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Changchun, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Qi Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yansong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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12
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Curran CS, Cui X, Li Y, Jeakle M, Sun J, Demirkale CY, Minkove S, Hoffmann V, Dhamapurkar R, Chumbris S, Bolyard C, Iheanacho A, Eichacker PQ, Torabi-Parizi P. Anti-PD-L1 therapy altered inflammation but not survival in a lethal murine hepatitis virus-1 pneumonia model. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1308358. [PMID: 38259435 PMCID: PMC10801642 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1308358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Because prior immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in cancer patients presenting with COVID-19 may affect outcomes, we investigated the beta-coronavirus, murine hepatitis virus (MHV)-1, in a lethal pneumonia model in the absence (Study 1) or presence of prior programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibody (PD-L1mAb) treatment (Study 2). Methods In Study 1, animals were inoculated intratracheally with MHV-1 or vehicle and evaluated at day 2, 5, and 10 after infection. In Study 2, uninfected or MHV-1-infected animals were pretreated intraperitoneally with control or PD-L1-blocking antibodies (PD-L1mAb) and evaluated at day 2 and 5 after infection. Each study examined survival, physiologic and histologic parameters, viral titers, lung immunophenotypes, and mediator production. Results Study 1 results recapitulated the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and revealed increased cell surface expression of checkpoint molecules (PD-L1, PD-1), higher expression of the immune activation marker angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), but reduced detection of the MHV-1 receptor CD66a on immune cells in the lung, liver, and spleen. In addition to reduced detection of PD-L1 on all immune cells assayed, PD-L1 blockade was associated with increased cell surface expression of PD-1 and ACE, decreased cell surface detection of CD66a, and improved oxygen saturation despite reduced blood glucose levels and increased signs of tissue hypoxia. In the lung, PD-L1mAb promoted S100A9 but inhibited ACE2 production concomitantly with pAKT activation and reduced FOXO1 levels. PD-L1mAb promoted interferon-γ but inhibited IL-5 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) production, contributing to reduced bronchoalveolar lavage levels of eosinophils and neutrophils. In the liver, PD-L1mAb increased viral clearance in association with increased macrophage and lymphocyte recruitment and liver injury. PD-L1mAb increased the production of virally induced mediators of injury, angiogenesis, and neuronal activity that may play role in COVID-19 and ICI-related neurotoxicity. PD-L1mAb did not affect survival in this murine model. Discussion In Study 1 and Study 2, ACE was upregulated and CD66a and ACE2 were downregulated by either MHV-1 or PD-L1mAb. CD66a is not only the MHV-1 receptor but also an identified immune checkpoint and a negative regulator of ACE. Crosstalk between CD66a and PD-L1 or ACE/ACE2 may provide insight into ICI therapies. These networks may also play role in the increased production of S100A9 and neurological mediators in response to MHV-1 and/or PD-L1mAb, which warrant further study. Overall, these findings support observational data suggesting that prior ICI treatment does not alter survival in patients presenting with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen S. Curran
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Xizhong Cui
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Yan Li
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Mark Jeakle
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Junfeng Sun
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Cumhur Y. Demirkale
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Samuel Minkove
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Victoria Hoffmann
- Division of Veterinary Resources, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rhea Dhamapurkar
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Symya Chumbris
- Texcell North-America, Inc., Frederick, MD, United States
| | | | | | - Peter Q. Eichacker
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Parizad Torabi-Parizi
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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13
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Maeda R, Seki N, Uwamino Y, Wakui M, Nakagama Y, Kido Y, Sasai M, Taira S, Toriu N, Yamamoto M, Matsuura Y, Uchiyama J, Yamaguchi G, Hirakawa M, Kim YG, Mishima M, Yanagita M, Suematsu M, Sugiura Y. Amino acid catabolite markers for early prognostication of pneumonia in patients with COVID-19. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8469. [PMID: 38123556 PMCID: PMC10733290 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44266-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective early-stage markers for predicting which patients are at risk of developing SARS-CoV-2 infection have not been fully investigated. Here, we performed comprehensive serum metabolome analysis of a total of 83 patients from two cohorts to determine that the acceleration of amino acid catabolism within 5 days from disease onset correlated with future disease severity. Increased levels of de-aminated amino acid catabolites involved in the de novo nucleotide synthesis pathway were identified as early prognostic markers that correlated with the initial viral load. We further employed mice models of SARS-CoV2-MA10 and influenza infection to demonstrate that such de-amination of amino acids and de novo synthesis of nucleotides were associated with the abnormal proliferation of airway and vascular tissue cells in the lungs during the early stages of infection. Consequently, it can be concluded that lung parenchymal tissue remodeling in the early stages of respiratory viral infections induces systemic metabolic remodeling and that the associated key amino acid catabolites are valid predictors for excessive inflammatory response in later disease stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rae Maeda
- Center for Cancer Immunotherapy and Immunobiology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Natsumi Seki
- Center for Cancer Immunotherapy and Immunobiology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Uwamino
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Wakui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu Nakagama
- Department of Virology & Parasitology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasutoshi Kido
- Department of Virology & Parasitology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Miwa Sasai
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shu Taira
- Faculty of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Fukushima University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Naoya Toriu
- Department of Nephrology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masahiro Yamamoto
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshiharu Matsuura
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Jun Uchiyama
- Research Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Genki Yamaguchi
- Research Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Hirakawa
- Research Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yun-Gi Kim
- Research Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayo Mishima
- Department of Biochemistry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Motoko Yanagita
- Department of Nephrology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Makoto Suematsu
- Department of Biochemistry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- WPI-Bio2Q Research Center, Keio University, and Central Institute for Experimental Medicine and Life Science, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yuki Sugiura
- Center for Cancer Immunotherapy and Immunobiology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
- Department of Biochemistry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
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14
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Chen F, Matsuda A, Budinger GRS, Sporn PHS, Casalino-Matsuda SM. Hypercapnia increases ACE2 expression and pseudo-SARS-CoV-2 entry in bronchial epithelial cells by augmenting cellular cholesterol. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1251120. [PMID: 37901225 PMCID: PMC10600497 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1251120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with chronic lung disease, obesity, and other co-morbid conditions are at increased risk of severe illness and death when infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Hypercapnia, the elevation of CO2 in blood and tissue, commonly occurs in patients with severe acute and chronic lung disease, including those with pulmonary infections, and is also associated with high mortality risk. We previously reported that hypercapnia increases viral replication and mortality of influenza A virus infection in mice. We have also shown that culture in elevated CO2 upregulates expression of cholesterol synthesis genes in primary human bronchial epithelial cells. Interestingly, factors that increase the cholesterol content of lipid rafts and lipid droplets, platforms for viral entry and assembly, enhance SARS-CoV-2 infection. In the current study, we investigated the effects of hypercapnia on ACE2 expression and entry of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus (p-SARS-CoV-2) into airway epithelial cells. We found that hypercapnia increased ACE2 expression and p-SARS-CoV-2 uptake by airway epithelium in mice, and in cultured VERO and human bronchial epithelial cells. Hypercapnia also increased total cellular and lipid raft-associated cholesterol in epithelial cells. Moreover, reducing cholesterol synthesis with inhibitors of sterol regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP2) or statins, and depletion of cellular cholesterol, each blocked the hypercapnia-induced increases in ACE2 expression and p-SARS-CoV-2 entry into epithelial cells. Cigarette smoke extract (CSE) also increased ACE2 expression, p-SARS-CoV-2 entry and cholesterol accumulation in epithelial cells, an effect not additive to that of hypercapnia, but also inhibited by statins. These findings reveal a mechanism that may account, in part, for poor clinical outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with advanced lung disease and hypercapnia, and in those who smoke cigarettes. Further, our results suggest the possibility that cholesterol-lowering therapies may be of particular benefit in patients with hypercapnia when exposed to or infected with SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Chen
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Aiko Matsuda
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - G. R. Scott Budinger
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Research Service, Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Peter H. S. Sporn
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Research Service, Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - S. Marina Casalino-Matsuda
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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15
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Jaramillo-Rangel G, Chávez-Briones MDL, Ancer-Arellano A, Miranda-Maldonado I, Ortega-Martínez M. Back to the Basics: Usefulness of Naturally Aged Mouse Models and Immunohistochemical and Quantitative Morphologic Methods in Studying Mechanisms of Lung Aging and Associated Diseases. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2075. [PMID: 37509714 PMCID: PMC10377355 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11072075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging-related molecular and cellular alterations in the lung contribute to an increased susceptibility of the elderly to devastating diseases. Although the study of the aging process in the lung may benefit from the use of genetically modified mouse models and omics techniques, these approaches are still not available to most researchers and produce complex results. In this article, we review works that used naturally aged mouse models, together with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative morphologic (QM) methods in the study of the mechanisms of the aging process in the lung and its most commonly associated disorders: cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and infectious diseases. The advantage of using naturally aged mice is that they present characteristics similar to those observed in human aging. The advantage of using IHC and QM methods lies in their simplicity, economic accessibility, and easy interpretation, in addition to the fact that they provide extremely important information. The study of the aging process in the lung and its associated diseases could allow the design of appropriate therapeutic strategies, which is extremely important considering that life expectancy and the number of elderly people continue to increase considerably worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilberto Jaramillo-Rangel
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico
| | | | - Adriana Ancer-Arellano
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico
| | - Ivett Miranda-Maldonado
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico
| | - Marta Ortega-Martínez
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico
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16
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Dillard JA, Martinez SA, Dearing JJ, Montgomery SA, Baxter AK. Animal Models for the Study of SARS-CoV-2-Induced Respiratory Disease and Pathology. Comp Med 2023; 73:72-90. [PMID: 36229170 PMCID: PMC9948904 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-22-000089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Emergence of the betacoronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in a historic pandemic, with millions of deaths worldwide. An unprecedented effort has been made by the medical, scientific, and public health communities to rapidly develop and implement vaccines and therapeutics to prevent and reduce hospitalizations and deaths. Although SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to disease in many organ systems, the respiratory system is its main target, with pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome as the hallmark features of severe disease. The large number of patients who have contracted COVID-19 infections since 2019 has permitted a detailed characterization of the clinical and pathologic features of the disease in humans. However, continued progress in the development of effective preventatives and therapies requires a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of infection. Studies using animal models are necessary to complement in vitro findings and human clinical data. Multiple animal species have been evaluated as potential models for studying the respiratory disease caused by SARSCoV-2 infection. Knowing the similarities and differences between animal and human responses to infection is critical for effective translation of animal data into human medicine. This review provides a detailed summary of the respiratory disease and associated pathology induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans and compares them with the disease that develops in 3 commonly used models: NHP, hamsters, and mice. The effective use of animals to study SARS-CoV-2-induced respiratory disease will enhance our understanding of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, allow the development of novel preventatives and therapeutics, and aid in the preparation for the next emerging virus with pandemic potential.
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Key Words
- ace2, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2
- agm, african green monkey
- ali, acute lung injury
- ards, acute respiratory distress syndrome
- balf, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid
- cards, covid-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome
- dad, diffuse alveolar damage
- dpi, days postinfection
- ggo, ground glass opacities
- s, spike glycoprotein
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A Dillard
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Sabian A Martinez
- Division of Comparative Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Justin J Dearing
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences Program, Office of Graduate Education, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Stephanie A Montgomery
- Division of Comparative Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Andvictoria K Baxter
- Division of Comparative Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina;,
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17
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Carpenter KC, Yang J, Xu JJ. Animal Models for the Study of Neurologic Manifestations Of COVID-19. Comp Med 2023; 73:91-103. [PMID: 36744556 PMCID: PMC9948905 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-22-000073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the cause of the worldwide coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, has infected an estimated 525 million people with over 6 million deaths. Although COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory disease, an escalating number of neurologic symptoms have been reported in humans. Some neurologic symptoms, such as loss of smell or taste, are mild. However, other symptoms, such as meningoencephalitis or stroke, are potentially fatal. Along with surveys and postmortem evaluations on humans, scientists worked with several animal species to try to elucidate the causes of neurologic symptoms. Neurologic sequelae remain challenging to study due to the complexity of the nervous system and difficulties in identification and quantification of neurologic signs. We reviewed animal models used in the study of neurologic COVID-19, specifically research in mice, hamsters, ferrets, and nonhuman primates. We summarized findings on the presence and pathologic effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the nervous system. Given the need to increase understanding of COVID-19 and its effects on the nervous system, scientists must strive to obtain new information from animals to reduce mortality and morbidity with neurologic complications in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey C Carpenter
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan;,
| | - Jibing Yang
- Center for Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jiajie J Xu
- Division of Animal Resources, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois
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Schloer S, Treuherz D, Faist A, Witt MD, Wunderlich K, Wiewrodt R, Wiebe K, Barth P, Wälzlein JH, Kummer S, Balkema-Buschmann A, Ludwig S, Brunotte L, Rescher U. 3D ex vivo tissue platforms to investigate the early phases of influenza A virus- and SARS-CoV-2-induced respiratory diseases. Emerg Microbes Infect 2022; 11:2160-2175. [PMID: 36000328 PMCID: PMC9518268 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2022.2117101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Pandemic outbreaks of viruses such as influenza virus or SARS-CoV-2 are associated with high morbidity and mortality and thus pose a massive threat to global health and economics. Physiologically relevant models are needed to study the viral life cycle, describe the pathophysiological consequences of viral infection, and explore possible drug targets and treatment options. While simple cell culture-based models do not reflect the tissue environment and systemic responses, animal models are linked with huge direct and indirect costs and ethical questions. Ex vivo platforms based on tissue explants have been introduced as suitable platforms to bridge the gap between cell culture and animal models. We established a murine lung tissue explant platform for two respiratory viruses, influenza A virus (IAV) and SARS-CoV-2. We observed efficient viral replication, associated with the release of inflammatory cytokines and the induction of an antiviral interferon response, comparable to ex vivo infection in human lung explants. Endolysosomal entry could be confirmed as a potential host target for pharmacological intervention, and the potential repurposing potentials of fluoxetine and interferons for host-directed therapy previously seen in vitro could be recapitulated in the ex vivo model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Schloer
- Institute-Associated Research Group "Regulatory Mechanisms of Inflammation", Institute of Medical Biochemistry, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation, and "Cells in Motion" Interfaculty Center, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Leibniz Institute of Virology, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Treuherz
- Institute-Associated Research Group "Regulatory Mechanisms of Inflammation", Institute of Medical Biochemistry, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation, and "Cells in Motion" Interfaculty Center, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Aileen Faist
- Institute of Virology, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation, and "Cells in Motion" Interfaculty Center, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Marlous de Witt
- Institute of Virology, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation, and "Cells in Motion" Interfaculty Center, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Katharina Wunderlich
- Institute of Virology, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation, and "Cells in Motion" Interfaculty Center, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Rainer Wiewrodt
- Department of Medicine A, Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Karsten Wiebe
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Peter Barth
- Gerhard-Domagk-Institute of Pathology, Westfälische Wilhelms-University, Münster, Germany
| | - Joo-Hee Wälzlein
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch-Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susann Kummer
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch-Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Balkema-Buschmann
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stephan Ludwig
- Institute of Virology, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation, and "Cells in Motion" Interfaculty Center, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Linda Brunotte
- Institute of Virology, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation, and "Cells in Motion" Interfaculty Center, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Ursula Rescher
- Institute-Associated Research Group "Regulatory Mechanisms of Inflammation", Institute of Medical Biochemistry, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation, and "Cells in Motion" Interfaculty Center, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Qu L, Chen C, Yin T, Fang Q, Hong Z, Zhou R, Tang H, Dong H. ACE2 and Innate Immunity in the Regulation of SARS-CoV-2-Induced Acute Lung Injury: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11483. [PMID: 34768911 PMCID: PMC8583933 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the protracted battle against coronavirus acute respiratory infection (COVID-19) and the rapid evolution of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), no specific and effective drugs have to date been reported. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a zinc metalloproteinase and a critical modulator of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). In addition, ACE2 has anti-inflammatory and antifibrosis functions. ACE has become widely known in the past decade as it has been identified as the primary receptor for SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, being closely associated with their infection. SARS-CoV-2 primarily targets the lung, which induces a cytokine storm by infecting alveolar cells, resulting in tissue damage and eventually severe acute respiratory syndrome. In the lung, innate immunity acts as a critical line of defense against pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2. This review aims to summarize the regulation of ACE2, and lung host cells resist SARS-CoV-2 invasion by activating innate immunity response. Finally, we discuss ACE2 as a therapeutic target, providing reference and enlightenment for the clinical treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Qu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (L.Q.); (T.Y.); (Q.F.); (Z.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Chao Chen
- School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210013, China;
| | - Tong Yin
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (L.Q.); (T.Y.); (Q.F.); (Z.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Qian Fang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (L.Q.); (T.Y.); (Q.F.); (Z.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Zizhan Hong
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (L.Q.); (T.Y.); (Q.F.); (Z.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Rui Zhou
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (L.Q.); (T.Y.); (Q.F.); (Z.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Hongbin Tang
- Center for Animal Experiment, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Huifen Dong
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (L.Q.); (T.Y.); (Q.F.); (Z.H.); (R.Z.)
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